A ready smile on the face, always willing to go out of the way to help somebody, exuding genuine happiness upon meeting a person - these are some of the common traits you will find in most Indians.
The Sanskrit saying, "Atithi Devo Bhava," meaning "The guest is truly your god" dictates the respect granted to guests in India.
The hospitality industry in India is, thus, very strong.
However, if you wish to know what real Indian hospitality is like, then it will be better if you stay at a native's house.
Most Indians live in an enlarged family, so often you will find the in-laws, uncles, cousins and other relatives living together. Saying "Namaste" to a guest is integral part to guest hospitality in India and you can expect every member to greet you this way.
Women form the backbone of traditional hospitality.
You will be surprised to find that even strangers on the road are very friendly and hospitable.
HOSPITALITY
A ready smile on the face, always willing to go out of the way to help somebody, exuding genuine happiness upon meeting a person - these are some of the common traits you will find in most Indians.
The Sanskrit saying, "Atithi Devo Bhava," meaning "The guest is truly your god" dictates the respect granted to guests in India.
The hospitality industry in India is, thus, very strong.
However, if you wish to know what real Indian hospitality is like, then it will be better if you stay at a native's house.
Most Indians live in an enlarged family, so often you will find the in-laws, uncles, cousins and other relatives living together. Saying "Namaste" to a guest is integral part to guest hospitality in India and you can expect every member to greet you this way.
Women form the backbone of traditional hospitality.
You will be surprised to find that even strangers on the road are very friendly and hospitable.
(adapted from
http://www.iloveindia.com/indian-traditions/hospitality.html)